Make Your Own Bookends

Follow the directions in this easy arts and crafts activity, to help your child make plaster of Paris bookends.
by: Christine Dvornik

Make Your Own Bookends

An Imagination Station Activity

Age: Preschool and up
Time: An hour or more
Type of Activity: Arts and crafts

Materials Needed:

  • Two cardboard containers or molding shells with lids
  • Sponge
  • Plaster of paris
  • Mixing bucket
  • Paint and decorative materials
  • Masking tape

    What to Do:

    1. Following the directions on the package, mix a batch of plaster of paris.

    2. Pour the mixture into the two containers, filling them about 3/4 of the way.

    3. Place the lids over the containers and secure them with masking tape.

    4. Place both containers somewhere that they won't be disturbed to dry overnight.

    5. The following day, peel the cardboard off of the container.

    6. If there are bumps or rough edges, you can smooth them over with a wet sponge.

    7. After you have done that, let the bookends dry completely. Then paint and decorate them however you wish.